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Roman Times in Regensburg

Although not as well known as it’s bigger neighbor, Munich, this former Roman city is a quiet respite from the crowds of tourists in the larger German cities. Situated at the confluence of the Danube, Regen and Naab rivers, Regensburg is easily reached by Autobahn or train from Munich and Nuremburg. I got to visit this wonderful city when I was working with a German company in 1995.

My colleague picked me from Munich Airport and drove to Regensburg on a sunny Saturday afternoon. It was also my first time riding on the famed Autobahn, and we were soon moving at 240km/h in the rental Audi. I didn’t know an estate Audi can go that fast and these German drivers are really crazy.

After checking into my hotel, it was time to explore the old town of Regensburg.

The old medieval town of Regensburg with it’s Roman stone bridge crossing the Danube River.A closer look at the main cathedral or Dom as it is known.Walking across the old stone bridge. If there were no cars in the picture, you might think you that you went back in time to the Roman Empire. The bridge was built in 1135-1146AD – now that’s really old.View of the Danube River

The old town is centered around the main cathedral, known to the locals as “The Dom”.

The Dom, built in 1634AD.

Outside of Regensburg, there are a couple of imposing buildings built by Ludwig I of Bavaria. I visited the Walhalla, an imposing replica of the Parthenon in Athens. It is built on a small hill about 10km out of Regensburg.

Suddenly I felt like I was in ancient Greece.There are a hundred or more marble busts of famous German personalities inside. Busts are still being added to the inside. Candidates are proposed to the Bavarian government, but they need to be dead for at least 20 years to be eligible.Standing amongst the massive Greek columns.You do get a wonderful view of the Danube River and surrounding countryside from the top of the Walhalla.

If you are interested in history and art, Regensburg will be a good stop for 2-3 days. And if you are not the culturally inclined type, there are numerous old breweries where you can get your Maß of locally brewed beer to pass away your time.